Deviation Actions
Description
Stand Back or Get On Aboard
A couple of weeks ago I walked around downtown Haverhill on a damp, foggy night. My goal was to make low light images and scout locations for future walks. I only made a few images that evening but, I came away with much to think about. One scene stuck with me for many days.
One of my favorite downtown spots is the train station. It is elevated above the city streets, brightly lit, and always busy. I truly enjoy the hustle and bustle as people come and go. Trains, to me, are a romantic link to America’s past. Once we boarded trains to move toward a new land; an uncertain, exciting future. Today we primarily board trains as we shuffle about during our commutes. Mostly we approach this ritual with a feeling of dread. We select a seat, bury our face in our Smartphone, or emptily stare out the window to avoid contact with those around us. Much like life itself, trains have a daily routine that can become mundane and apathetic. The drudgery of the commute blankets us with a numbness that hardens our exterior and softens our awareness and appreciation.
However, the ride is as mundane as you choose it to be. You can put your head down and wait for the ride to be over or, you can open your eyes and pay attention to what is going on around you. You can embrace your day and those that are in it, or not. It’s YOUR ride: read a book, listen to music, talk to a stranger, make a friend, or simply take note and enjoy what is going on around you. It really is all good.
Each day, and the people that are in it, are a gift to all of us. Get on board and make the most of it, every day.
DET 2013
